Open Boating

Join us this summer for Open Boating! On Saturday and Sunday afternoons 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. starting late June through the end of August, we will have sit-on-top recreational kayaks and Stand-Up Paddle Boards available for public use.

Drop in to check out a SUP board or Kayak.

Rates are $16.50/hour – one hour minimum.

Must be over 8 years old to participate. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Call the boathouse for more information: (206) 386-1913

Open Boating FAQs:

No. If you don’t have a Float Test, you can still participate in Open Boating, you’ll just need to remain in Wetmore Cove (the cove near our boathouse). If you have passed a Float Test (and are 13 or older), you can take your SUP or Paddleboard out of the cove as far as Andrew’s Bay (Seward Park).

The Float Test is required for Open Boaters who want to venture outside Wetmore Cove. It consists of a ten-minute test to asses your water-comfort level. The float test must be done at a City of Seattle Pool, Swimming Beach, or private pool supervised by a lifeguard. We do not administer the Float Test at Mount Baker Rowing & Sailing Center.

Open Boating participants who have passed a Float Test and are 13 or older can paddle within the Open Boating Area (100 feet from shore) from Wetmore Cove, south to Andrews Bay (Seward Park). If you haven’t passed the Float Test, or are under 13, you can paddle within Wetmore Cove.

There are two ways to pay: With a credit card and valid ID – OR – Sign up for a Seattle Parks and Recreation Quick Card. You can pre-load a quick card with Open Boating credits. No need to bring your wallet!